Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp: How far from Kathmandu to EBC
Trip Overview
The distance from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is approximately 203 kilometers (126 miles). The typical trekking route to EBC starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which is about 138 kilometers (86 miles) by air. From Lukla, the trek to Everest Base Camp is approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles). The round trip distance from Lukla to Everest Base Camp to Lukla is around 130 kilometers (80 miles), usually taking about 12 days, including acclimatization days.
The epic journey from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp is a trek that takes you from the bustling, vibrant streets of Nepal’s capital to the awe-inspiring, serene heights of the world’s highest peak.
The actual trekking distance from Lukla, where most expeditions begin after a thrilling flight to Lukla. Now, imagine walking from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, but instead of flat, even terrain, you’re navigating through the heart of the Himalayas. The path is a series of steep climbs and descents, winding through ancient rhododendron forests, crossing rickety suspension bridges over roaring rivers, and passing through quaint Sherpa settlements where the air is as thin as the smile lines on a wise old yak.
You’ll ascend from the lowly elevation of Kathmandu, nestled at about 2860 meters above sea level, to the dizzying heights of Everest Base Camp, standing tall at 5,364 meters. That’s a vertical gain of over 1500 meters.
The sights you’ll see along the way, the towering peaks of the Khumbu region, including Lhotse, Nuptse, and the mighty Everest itself, will be your constant companions. You’ll trek through the fabled Khumbu Valley, where the air is crisp and the scenery is so breathtaking it feels like a painting that’s come to life. You’ll visit Namche Bazaar, the bustling gateway to the high Himalayas, and the sacred Tengboche Monastery, where the air is thick with the scent of incense and prayers.
You’ll cross the famous Khumbu Glacier and ascend the infamous Kala Patthar, a rocky knoll that offers a heart-stopping view of Everest. When you finally reach Base Camp, you’ll be greeted by the colorful tents of climbers from around the globe, all united in their quest to conquer the highest point on Earth.
So, while the distance might seem doable in the grand scheme of things, remember that this is no ordinary trip. It’s an exploration for the adventurous soul, a journey that tests your limits and rewards you with sights and experiences that are nothing short of life-changing. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a novice looking for the challenge of a lifetime, the trek to Everest Base Camp is a distance that measures more than just kilometers – it’s a distance of the heart and spirit that you’ll carry with you long after your feet have left the trail.
Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Flight to Tenzing and Hillary Airport in Lukla (2804m/9199ft). Trek from Lukla to Phakding (Alt. 2610m/8563ft). Walking 4 hours. O/n in Mountain Lodge. |
Day 02: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (Alt. 3441m/11289ft). Walking 6 – 7 hours. O/n in Mountain Lodge. |
Day 03: Acclimatization day. Day trip to Shyangboche and Khumjung Village (Alt. 3780m/12402ft) and back to Namche Bazaar. Walking 5 hours. O/n in Mountain Lodge. |
Day 04: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (Alt. 3860m/12664ft). Walking 5 to 6 hours. O/n in Mountain Lodge. |
Day 05: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (Alt. 4350m/14272ft). Walking 5 to 6 hours. O/n in Mountain Lodge. |
Day 06: Acclimatization day. Walk around Dingboche. Walking 4 hours. O/n in Mountain Lodge. |
Day 07: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (Alt. 4910m/4910ft). Walking 5 to 6 hours. O/n in Mountain Lodge. |
Day 08: Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (Alt. 5365m/17602ft) then back to Gorak Shep. Walking 6 to 7 hours. O/n in Mountain Lodge. |
Day 09: Hike up to Kalapatthar (Alt. 5555m/18225ft) then trek down to Pheriche (4200m/13780ft). Walking 7 hours. O/n in Mountain Lodge. |
Day 10: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (Alt. 3441m/11289ft). Walking 7 hours. O/n in Mountain Lodge. |
Day 11: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (Alt.2804m/9199ft). Walking 7 hours. O/n in Mountain Lodge. |
Day 12: Flight from Lukla and back to Kathmandu. |